Captain America had a message for young Bridger Walker from Wyoming after the six-year-old made headlines (opens in new tab) when he jumped between his sister and a charging dog. Left with bite marks, bruises, and 90 stitches, Walker told his father: “If someone had to die, I thought it should be me.”
Now Walker’s favourite onscreen heroes have been commending his bravery, with the latest being Chris Evans. Walker’s mother shared the child’s video reaction (opens in new tab) (dressed in his very own Captain America costume) to the special message from Evans. “I read your story, I heard what you did, and pal – you’re a hero,” the actor said. “What you did was so brave, so selfless, your sister is so lucky to have you as a big brother.”
Evans went as far as to promise an authentic Captain America shield would be sent to Walker as a thank you. “Keep being the man you are, we need people like you,” he added.
Actress Anne Hathaway also wrote on Instagram (opens in new tab): “I’m not an Avenger, but I know a superhero when I see one.” Walker’s family have reportedly received private messages from the likes of Mark Ruffalo, Hugh Jackman, and Tom Holland in support of his actions.
After sharing news on the incident on Instagram (opens in new tab), Bridger’s aunt had hoped for a special message from one of her son’s heroes – it looks like she got her wish and then some. In response to people asking about a GoFundMe, she has requested that people instead donate to Mission 22 (opens in new tab) or WWP (opens in new tab); both charities work with veterans to improve their mental health. Since Bridger is interested in science and geology, she added that he’d also love for people to send him pictures of “cool rocks.” (opens in new tab) We’re not crying, you are.